Sussan Ley Defends Assertive Women After Liberal Elder Remarks

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has strongly encouraged assertive women to join the Liberal Party in response to controversial remarks by former Liberal federal president Alan Stockdale, who suggested women had become so assertive that the party might need special rules to support men in preselection. Ley emphasized that the Liberal Party must reflect modern Australia by recognizing the strength, merit, and leadership of women in its ranks. Stockdale later apologized, describing his comment as a "lighthearted but poorly chosen remark," but faced widespread criticism from senior party figures including Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie and Deputy Leader Ted O’Brien. The Liberal Party has faced longstanding criticism for its treatment of female candidates and for losing support among female voters, a problem highlighted by its recent federal election loss. Deputy Leader O’Brien and others have called for more women to engage and run for the party, while critics urge the party to reassess its structures and approach to women. The controversy underscores ongoing challenges within the Liberal Party regarding gender representation and support.